Behind the Scenes with… Jo Thorne, photographer

Copperdollar Studios caught up with local photographer Jo Thorne, who chose the studios as the location for some of her shoots recently. Inspired by light and connection, Jo specialises in wedding and brand photography that aims to tell a story.

Could you please tell me a little bit about yourself and the company?

My name is Jo Thorne. I graduated from an Editorial Photography degree in Brighton 12 years ago. I have been growing my photography business alongside my son for the last 12 years now. I shoot many different things ranging from weddings, families, fashion, food, portraits and brand photography.

Could you discuss the project you’ve worked in recently at Copperdollar Studios?

I​ have shot a couple of things at Copperdollar Studios recently. I did a family shoot in there just before Christmas – using the lovely natural light to create some family portraits. In January, I shot a lookbook for a jeweller there.

Where did you first come across the studio space?

​On Instagram, I think!

What is your favourite aspect of Copperdollar Studios and what makes it different from other spaces you’ve used for photography in the past? ​

It has beautiful window light. I love working with available light, I like the surprises and challenges it produces. Also, the textured walls make a lovely backdrop.

Can you remember your very first photography job?

Ummmm…well it was assisting a wedding photographer – and I tripped up on my own trouser leg and ended up with a tripod in my eye and an instant black eye! So it didn’t feel too great! But obviously very funny in hindsight!

Despite having an eclectic portfolio, would you say that people are the main subjects of your work? ​

I guess they are… I’m a funny mixture…an introverted extrovert I think they call it! I worked as a waitress for years and so I am very used to working with people, and people also fascinate me. But I also need timeout too and my personal work has no people in it at all! Still life, flowers, nature, not one person! So, yes, but it’s very much a balance.

What other projects are you aspiring to do this year? ​

More personal work, more flowers. I am doing ikebana (Japanese flower arranging) workshop in the next few weeks and I’m hoping to incorporate that into my work.